“We have an emergency plan which can be activated at any time and we have a duty officer call system as part of our regular support process within our district,” said Blaise MacNeil, CEO, South West Health.
Arrangements have been made for staff scheduled to work and who have a long commute to stay overnight near the hospital they work. Fuel has been topped up in case hospital generators are required to run for an extended period of time. District vehicles have gas tanks topped up so they are ready as required. Additional food has been stocked for inpatients and medical supplies are ready.
At the Digby General Hospital staffing resources have been increased, additional medical supplies and blood have been stocked to support the emergency department which may be impacted by the increased visitors for the Wharf Rat Rally.
The public is reminded to stay indoors during the storm to avoid unnecessary trauma and injuries. Stay away from the shoreline. Rogue waves have been known to sweep people into the sea from areas that appeared to have been safe.
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In the event of a non-urgent health issue, the Healthlink 811 service is available. By dialling 8-1-1 individuals can talk to a registered nurse 24/7. In the case of a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
“A very large thank you to the dedicated staff and physicians that will be working this weekend in our emergency departments, on inpatient units and in supporting services such as respiratory, diagnostic imaging, pharmacy, lab, food and nutrition services, housekeeping and many others,” said MacNeil.
“As usual they step up to an emergency because of their deep commitment to our patients and community members,” he added.
